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2021 Mazda6 Atenza vs 2021 Volkswagen Passat 140TSI

Published October 2026
2021 Mazda6 Atenza vs 2021 Volkswagen Passat 140TSI
2021 Mazda6 Atenza vs 2021 Volkswagen Passat 140TSI
2021 Mazda6 Atenza vs 2021 Volkswagen Passat 140TSI Close
2021 Mazda6 Atenza vs 2021 Volkswagen Passat 140TSI
2021 Mazda6 Atenza vs 2021 Volkswagen Passat 140TSI
2021 Mazda6 Atenza vs 2021 Volkswagen Passat 140TSI
2021 Mazda6 Atenza vs 2021 Volkswagen Passat 140TSI

A Comprehensive Cars Comparison by Cars4us

The 2021 Mazda6 Atenza and 2021 Volkswagen Passat 140TSI Business are two compelling options for Australian drivers seeking a comfortable, spacious and refined used sedan. Both offer turbocharged petrol engines, premium features and the versatility needed for daily commuting, family duties and longer highway journeys. While they compete in the same segment, these sedans approach the driving experience differently. The Mazda6 Atenza prioritises strong performance, sophisticated styling and an upmarket interior, while the Volkswagen Passat 140TSI Business focuses on fuel efficiency, generous space and understated European refinement. In this Mazda6 vs Volkswagen Passat comparison, we explore how these two sedans compare across six important categories to help you decide which one best suits your driving needs.

Powertrain & Performance

Mazda6 Atenza

8/10

  • The 2021 Mazda6 Atenza features a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 170kW of power and 420Nm of torque.
  • Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the Mazda delivers strong acceleration and responsive performance, particularly when overtaking or travelling at highway speeds.
  • Its generous torque output provides effortless pulling power without requiring frequent gear changes, making it equally comfortable in urban traffic and on longer journeys.
  • The Mazda6 also offers composed handling and responsive steering, creating an engaging driving experience for those who appreciate a balance between comfort and performance.

Volkswagen Passat 140TSI

7.5/10

  • The 2021 Volkswagen Passat 140TSI Business uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 140kW and 320Nm.
  • Its dual-clutch automatic transmission delivers efficient gear changes and smooth performance once moving, making the Passat particularly well suited to highway cruising.
  • Although it produces less power and torque than the Mazda6, the Passat offers confident acceleration and a relaxed driving character.
  • Its refined suspension and stable handling make it an appealing choice for drivers who regularly travel longer distances.
  • Verdict: The Mazda6 Atenza takes the lead with its more powerful turbocharged engine and stronger acceleration. The Volkswagen Passat remains a refined and capable performer, particularly for comfortable highway driving.

Interior Comfort & Features

Mazda6 Atenza

8.5/10

  • The Mazda6 Atenza offers an elegant and sophisticated cabin designed to deliver a premium driving experience.
  • High-quality materials, Nappa leather upholstery and carefully considered interior details give the Mazda a luxurious feel.
  • An 8-inch infotainment display provides access to navigation and smartphone connectivity, while an 11-speaker Bose premium audio system enhances the entertainment experience.
  • The front seats offer excellent comfort and support, making the Mazda6 particularly appealing for longer journeys.
  • Its driver-focused dashboard, intuitive controls and refined interior presentation help create an environment that feels more upmarket than many conventional family sedans.

Volkswagen Passat 140TSI

8/10

  • The Volkswagen Passat 140TSI Business takes a more understated approach, combining a clean dashboard design with practical technology and comfortable seating.
  • An 8-inch infotainment touchscreen provides navigation and smartphone connectivity, while three-zone climate control allows occupants to adjust their preferred cabin temperature.
  • The Passat's interior prioritises functionality, with well-positioned controls, practical storage spaces and generous passenger accommodation.
  • Although its cabin styling is more conservative than the Mazda's, its comfortable seats and refined layout make it an excellent choice for daily commuting and extended highway trips.
  • Verdict: The Mazda6 Atenza wins for its premium materials, luxurious seating and high-quality audio system. The Volkswagen Passat offers a spacious, comfortable cabin with useful convenience features.

Space & Practicality

Mazda6 Atenza

7.5/10

  • The Mazda6 Atenza sedan offers seating for five and a 474-litre boot, providing ample room for groceries, luggage and everyday essentials.
  • Its spacious cabin accommodates front and rear passengers comfortably, while the supportive seats make longer journeys more enjoyable.
  • The Mazda6 was also available in a wagon body style, offering an alternative for buyers who require additional cargo flexibility.
  • Although the sedan's boot is smaller than the Passat's, it remains practical for commuting, family use and weekend travel.

Volkswagen Passat 140TSI

8/10

  • The Volkswagen Passat 140TSI Business provides a generous 586-litre boot, giving it a significant advantage over the Mazda6 sedan when carrying luggage or larger items.
  • Folding the rear seats expands the available luggage space, making the Passat particularly versatile for families and frequent travellers.
  • Its spacious rear seating area also offers excellent legroom, allowing adult passengers to travel comfortably on longer journeys.
  • The combination of a large boot, generous cabin dimensions and practical storage solutions makes the Passat an appealing option for drivers who regularly transport passengers and luggage.
  • Verdict: The Volkswagen Passat wins for its larger boot and generous passenger accommodation. The Mazda6 remains practical, with the additional benefit of a wagon body style for buyers considering alternatives to the sedan.

Fuel Efficiency

Mazda6 Atenza

7/10

  • The 2021 Mazda6 Atenza has a claimed combined fuel consumption figure of 7.6L/100km.
  • Considering its powerful turbocharged engine, this represents a reasonable balance between performance and fuel efficiency.
  • The Mazda6 can operate on regular 91 RON unleaded petrol, providing additional flexibility when refuelling.
  • Its strong torque delivery also makes highway driving feel effortless, although drivers who frequently accelerate hard may notice higher fuel consumption.

Volkswagen Passat 140TSI

8/10

  • The Volkswagen Passat 140TSI Business records a claimed combined fuel consumption figure of 6.4L/100km.
  • Its smaller turbocharged engine and efficient dual-clutch transmission help deliver economical performance, particularly during longer highway journeys.
  • The Passat requires premium unleaded petrol, which is worth considering when comparing ongoing running costs.
  • Despite this requirement, its lower claimed fuel consumption makes it an attractive option for drivers who cover significant distances each year.
  • Actual fuel consumption for both vehicles will depend on traffic conditions, driving style, vehicle load and maintenance.
  • Verdict: The Volkswagen Passat takes the lead with its lower claimed fuel consumption. However, the Mazda6's ability to use regular unleaded petrol helps offset some of the difference in fuel costs.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Mazda6 Atenza

8/10

  • The Mazda6 Atenza offers a comprehensive range of safety and driver-assistance technologies designed to support driver awareness and help reduce the likelihood of collisions.
  • Key features include:
  • Autonomous emergency braking
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Lane-keeping assistance
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Rear cross-traffic alert
  • The Mazda6 received a five-star ANCAP safety rating in 2018 under the assessment criteria applicable at the time.
  • Its combination of active safety features and driver-assistance systems provides additional reassurance for everyday driving and longer journeys.

Volkswagen Passat 140TSI

7.5/10

  • The Volkswagen Passat 140TSI Business also offers a strong selection of safety technologies, with Volkswagen's driver-assistance systems designed to support both urban and highway driving.
  • Depending on the vehicle's specification, features include:
  • Autonomous emergency braking
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Lane-keeping assistance
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Parking assistance technologies
  • The Passat received a five-star ANCAP safety rating in 2015 under the testing standards used at that time.
  • While both vehicles achieved five-star results, the different testing years mean their ratings should not be treated as directly equivalent under identical assessment criteria.
  • Verdict: Both sedans offer comprehensive safety equipment and strong historical ANCAP results. The Mazda6 benefits from a more recent assessment, while the Passat provides a useful range of driver-assistance technologies.

Ownership & Value

Mazda6 Atenza

7.5/10

  • The Mazda6 Atenza offers an appealing combination of performance, premium equipment and everyday comfort.
  • Its powerful turbocharged engine, luxurious interior and high-quality features make it particularly attractive to drivers seeking a more sophisticated used sedan.
  • Mazda's established Australian dealership and service network also provides convenient access to maintenance and servicing.
  • The Mazda6 was originally supported by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre manufacturer warranty, subject to the applicable terms and conditions.
  • When considering a used example, buyers should review its service history, overall condition and any remaining warranty coverage.

Volkswagen Passat 140TSI

8/10

  • The Volkswagen Passat 140TSI Business delivers strong ownership appeal through its spacious interior, refined driving experience and efficient turbocharged engine.
  • Its generous boot capacity and comfortable cabin make it particularly suitable for families and drivers who frequently travel longer distances.
  • Volkswagen also offered a five-year, unlimited-kilometre manufacturer warranty on eligible Australian vehicles, subject to the original warranty conditions.
  • As with any used European vehicle, checking the maintenance history and ensuring scheduled servicing has been completed is particularly important.
  • The Passat's combination of practicality, comfort and fuel efficiency makes it a compelling alternative to more traditional family sedans.
  • Verdict: Both sedans offer excellent qualities for used-car buyers. The Mazda6 Atenza stands out for its premium equipment and stronger performance, while the Volkswagen Passat delivers impressive practicality and efficient everyday driving.

Our Verdict

Atenza 7.8/10
140TSI 7.8/10

Final Verdict: Mazda6 Atenza or Volkswagen Passat 140TSI?

The 2021 Mazda6 Atenza and 2021 Volkswagen Passat 140TSI Business are both excellent choices for drivers seeking a comfortable, refined and practical used sedan.

The Mazda6 Atenza is the better option for drivers who value strong turbocharged performance, premium interior finishes and a more engaging driving experience. Its luxurious cabin, powerful engine and sophisticated styling make it an appealing choice for those who want something beyond basic everyday transport.

The Volkswagen Passat 140TSI Business is particularly well suited to drivers who prioritise passenger space, luggage capacity and fuel efficiency. Its spacious interior, large boot and comfortable highway manners make it a practical choice for families and frequent travellers.

Ultimately, choosing between the Mazda6 and Volkswagen Passat comes down to your priorities. If performance and interior luxury matter most, the Mazda6 Atenza is a compelling choice. If you prefer generous space, relaxed driving and lower fuel consumption, the Passat 140TSI Business deserves serious consideration.

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